Things to do with your dog in California

Over the past 10 years, DogTrekker’s team of veteran writers and editors have crafted more than 2,500 stories about all of the things you can do with your dog in California. Happy DogTrekking! Remember to travel lightly and always Leave Only Paw Prints®!

Spring in Yosemite: Spectacular waterfalls!

a large brown dog sitting on top of a lush green field.

Duke at Yosemite. Photo by @dukethechocolatelab.

Spring in Yosemite is incredible this year with bigger and more beautiful spectacular waterfalls, and no reservations needed! California dog parents are perfectly positioned for a visit. Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park are an easy drive from just about anywhere in the state. Pack up the family (including four-legged family members!) and head out to enjoy Yosemite’s magnificent waterfa Read more.

Delightful surprises in Tahoe City

A brown dog sitting in front of a sign in Tahoe City.

Tahoe City, set on the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe in Placer County, is a popular destination known for stunning natural surroundings, trails and water fun. Read more.

Majestic, dog-friendly mountain towns

Let’s admit it. DogTrekkers are spoiled here in sun-kissed California. In the California mountains, you’ll find enchanting towns just waiting for people and pups who seek adventure on a grand scale. These communities are also home to charming and dog-friendly places to stay, dine, hike, swim, and play. We’ll explore a few mountain towns today, beginning our 5,000-foot-plus journey near Lake Read more.

Culture, open-air patios and tacos galore

In Vacaville, you’ll find engaging surprises at every turn. The Western Railway Museum showcases 50 vintage cars across 22 dog-friendly acres. Read more.

Two new trails spotlight Vacaville’s top stops

Vacaville Bucket List graphic with an illustration of the sun peeking out from behind hills.

Vacaville's popular taco and winery trails introduce some of the city's tastiest highlights. Now, two new trail guides offer additional ways to explore. Read more.

Vacaville is exciting, affordable and friendly for dogs

DogTrekkers love exploring Northern California, and one regional destination stands out for its convenient location and four-paw experiences. Read more.

Napa Humane Walk for Animals 2023

Maya at Pawsport 2018, Hall Wines. Photo by Dave Kendrick.

Come support Napa Humane at the 12th annual Walk for Animals fundraising event at Yountville Community Park! This short stroll through town goes miles and miles for Napa Valley’s companion animals. Register, fundraise, walk, then participate in the day’s festivities, including raffles, contests, photo ops, and more. Read more.

Book the exclusive Ultimate Adventure Package

Person paddling kayak with dog by the Little River Inn

Water dog at the Little River Inn. Photo by Brendan McGuigan.

Pet parents love Mendocino County’s dog-friendly swimming spots, hiking trails, adventures and attractions. Now, the Little River Inn has teamed up Read more.

Welcome to summer events!

DogTrekker people at Bark in the Park, San Jose.

DogTrekker at Bark in the Park, San Jose.

Check out these events for a cause! If you missed California rescue/adoption events this spring, no worries, the summer season is just beginning. DogTrekker.com's event section is filled with a wide range of things to do with the entire family, including adoptathons, fundraisers, walks, costume contests, and opportunities for tasting and sipping. From Bark in the Park in San Francisco, to the D Read more.

Greater Ontario, gateway to the SoCal Experience

Greater Ontario—so dog-friendly!

Dogs love to GO! With plenty of hotels in Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga to choose from, several of them will accommodate your pet. Read more.

Chow down in Greater Ontario

Hike, eat, chill. Photo by Lazy Dog Restaurant.

Pet-friendly restaurants provide outdoor patios to enjoy a great meal for the entire family, including your dog. Read more.

Greater Ontario

When it comes to the “pawfect” road trip for Fido and the family, the cities, historic downtowns, and mountain trails of Greater Ontario are a real treat Read more.

Tahoe’s tail-waggin’ winter highlights

Belgian Malinois at Kiva Beach at Lake Tahoe with snow

Snow dog at Kiva Beach, Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe promises classic fun in any season, but this slice of California really sparkles during the winter. The destination is known for ski hills, cross-country trails, and more spectacular scenery than you can shake a stick at. Read more.

SNO many options for fun

2 men and a dog stand in snowy parking lot

Lola, dad Jeff and grandpa Dave, head out for the SNO-Parks.

Here's a DogTrekker secret: Stories about California SNO-Parks are among our most-read each year! There's lots to bark about when it comes to these dog-friendly, snow-covered playgrounds scattered on U.S. Forest Service lands. Read more.

Rainy day fun: 10 indoor activities for dog lovers in Sonoma County

PepperJack and Skylar want you to take them somewhere. Photo by Roger Coryell.

Our top 10 recommendations for rainy-day dog activities in Sonoma County. Read more.

Best dog-friendly lakes in California

Looking for a great place to take your furry friend for a swim? Look no further! California is home to many beautiful lakes that are perfect for dogs. Read more.

Five great California destinations for you and your dog

Yes, you can take dogs to Yosemite,

Has your pup been begging you to take them on vacation? We know the feeling. Lucky for you, California is full of incredible places that welcome dogs with open arms. … Continued Read more.